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Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities – "Tootsie Roll Drive"

One of the most popular and successful programs conducted by Knights of Columbus state and local councils for the benefit of people with intellectual disabilities is the fund-raiser in which councils collect donations outside stores and on street corners. In appreciation, the donor is offered a candy bar, often a Tootsie Roll. The high visibility of this program has led to the campaign being referred to as the “Tootsie Roll Drive.”

The nickname is understandable, but misleading.

The Knights of Columbus has no official tie to Tootsie Rolls or their manufacturer. In fact, many councils participate in the same fund-raising drive, but distribute other items. References to this program should highlight the good the money does, not advertise a candy bar. For these reasons, it is strongly recommended that this project be promoted as the “Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities” rather than the “Tootsie Roll Drive.”

2016 Beneficiaries

On behalf of Council 15791, brother Justin Hebert, left, presented the proceeds from this year's drive to Lisa Bird, Special Olympics Maine; Tyler Cary, Pine Tree Society of Maine; and Jeremy Kendall, Veterans Count Maine. Each organization received $400.00.

The next time you crunch into a Tootsie Roll, remember the people you have helped through an earlier Tootsie Roll.